I decided to add a few new patterns to my annual MGTU banquet donation of a large boat patch chock full of saltwater patterns. One of the new ones I thought I'd try is the Flexo Crab, a popular flats pattern.
From the tyer's viewpoint it was an intimidating pattern that just didn't fit the mold in terms of traditional tying techniques. However, with the help of a few videos and other tying resources, I think I figured it out.
Working with materials on hand I did stumble a bit with using ultra chenille for the legs and claws. The stuff I had was just too fragile. So, I substituted round vinyl ribbing for the claws and legs. Much easier to work with and also very durable. The other lesson involved hook length--the longer 2X the better. Compressing the flex tubing along the hook shank takes up more space than you might think.
Still need to practice a lot with this one, but it will make a decent addition to the saltwater boat patch donation. boat
From the tyer's viewpoint it was an intimidating pattern that just didn't fit the mold in terms of traditional tying techniques. However, with the help of a few videos and other tying resources, I think I figured it out.
Working with materials on hand I did stumble a bit with using ultra chenille for the legs and claws. The stuff I had was just too fragile. So, I substituted round vinyl ribbing for the claws and legs. Much easier to work with and also very durable. The other lesson involved hook length--the longer 2X the better. Compressing the flex tubing along the hook shank takes up more space than you might think.
Still need to practice a lot with this one, but it will make a decent addition to the saltwater boat patch donation. boat
